Remember to stay safe while you shop

Here are a few tips from the Scotts Valley Police Department to help you avoid becoming the victim of a crime while you shop during this holiday season:
• Even when rushed, stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you. Avoid shopping alone. There is safety in numbers.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be extra careful with purses and wallets. Do not place your purse in a shopping cart — it only takes a moment of distraction for someone to grab it.
• When paying with a credit card, watch your card during transactions. Make sure it is used for your purchase only. Keep your credit card number secure from others.
• Lock your car and close your windows, even if you are gone for only a few minutes. Lock your packages in the trunk, and if you return to do more shopping, move your car to a different parking spot to make potential thieves think you have left.
• Always have your keys ready by the time you get to your car, especially if you have a lot of packages.